House proposal would continue University-led program helping towns under 15,000 build project capacity

Chair Cagle moved House File 1360 to be laid over for possible inclusion in the omnibus bill. The bill would continue the Empowering Small Minnesota Communities (ESMC) program, a University of Minnesota–coordinated grant/service effort that helps towns under 15,000 build capacity to develop infrastructure, energy, water and other projects.

The University of Minnesota’s Kyle Shelton, director of the Center for Transportation Studies, told the committee the program grew from a 2023 pilot and has supported roughly 45 communities in the first round, with a dozen more pending in round two. “This program really began in 2023…around a clear need for additional capacity around infrastructure projects,” Shelton said, noting projects have ranged from local streets and downtown economic development to water systems, energy efficiencies, landfills, parks and trails.

Local officials described tactical outcomes. Carrie Kirschbaum, community development director for Crookston, said the program helped her city run community outreach and secure grants: “We have trails going. We have…